H335- Max load data in .223 bolt action

[jdgray]

I'm developing a load for my Rem 700 SPS Varmint .223, and previously thought 26gr H335 was a max load, using 50gr bullets. I just found Sierras .223 Bolt action data, claiming 28grs as max. Anyone load that hot? My groups were shrinking at 26gr, with some vertical stringing, and heard the sweetspot was close at that point, but at a max load, I wasn't going any hotter.

 

[Rovieairto]

Re: H335- Max load data in .223 bolt action

Your primer and casehead should clue you in as to what may be your maximum pressure.
Is your brass yielding in any way?
Ex. Is there any boltface imprinting on the case head?

Do your primers have some usable radius left in them?
Ex. Are your primers beginning to flatten to the edge of the primer pocket?

If everything looks good you should be able to safely work higher until a weakest link shows itself.
You can also be checking for "nodes of accuracy" during this testing so that you can uncover the highest safe load that is at one of these nodes.
This usually gives you a safety margin because it will usually be under your max safe load that was determined during this "ladder test".

Ive had a few loads that wouldn't make it to what was published as max in a Sierra manual.